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US Treasury sanctions IRGC-linked digital asset exchanges

Written by Jon CuthbertPublished fev. 1 2026Last Updated fev. 1 2026

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The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced fresh sanctions targeting individuals and entities linked to Iran’s security apparatus on January 30, 2026, in Washington.

The Office of Foreign Assets Control designated Iran’s Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni Kalagari for alleged involvement in serious human rights abuses.

OFAC also sanctioned several commanders from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and Iran’s Law Enforcement Forces under multiple executive authorities.

The measures extend to Babak Morteza Zanjani, a businessman accused of helping sanctioned Iranian entities access global financial systems.

Two UK-registered digital asset exchanges, Zedcex Exchange Ltd. and Zedxion Exchange Ltd., were named for allegedly facilitating sanctions evasion.

Treasury officials said the exchanges were linked to transactions involving IRGC-affiliated counterparties.

OFAC stated that Zedcex Exchange processed more than $94 billion in transactions since 2022.

The agency said digital assets were used to obscure the origin and destination of funds tied to sanctioned Iranian actors.

All property and interests in property of the designated individuals and entities under U.S. jurisdiction are now blocked.

U.S. persons are generally prohibited from engaging in transactions with the sanctioned parties.

Treasury warned that violations of the sanctions could result in significant civil or criminal penalties.

The designations were issued under Executive Orders 13553, 13224, and 13902.

OFAC said the actions reflect continued enforcement against networks supporting repression and regional instability.

Treasury officials noted that sanctions apply regardless of whether transactions are conducted in fiat currency or digital assets.

The agency reiterated that cryptocurrency platforms are subject to the same compliance expectations as traditional financial institutions.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent criticised Iran’s leadership over its use of violence against civilians.

“Treasury will act against those who enable repression and sanctions evasion,”

Scott Bessent said.

OFAC highlighted previous guidance, including General License D-2, which aims to support internet freedom for Iranian citizens.

Officials stressed that the licence does not authorise transactions that benefit sanctioned individuals or entities.

Financial institutions were reminded of their obligation to identify and block sanctioned property.

OFAC said affected parties must report any blocked assets to the agency in a timely manner.

The Treasury added that enforcement actions would proceed in line with U.S. law and jurisdictional authority.

Analysts said the move signals increased scrutiny of digital asset platforms with links to sanctioned regimes.

The sanctions underline Washington’s view that crypto markets can be exploited for geopolitical and human rights abuses.